State patrol set to buy back bump stocks ahead of ban

A bump stock device, (left) that fits on a semi-automatic rifle to increase the firing speed, making it similar to a fully automatic rifle, is installed on a AK-47 semi-automatic rifle, (right) at a gun store. (Photo by George Frey/Getty Images)

Bump stocks are officially banned across the nation on March 26 and the Washington State Patrol is offering to take them off your hands beforehand.

In exchange for your bump stock, WSP will mail you a check for $150. That is until the $150,000 in buyback funds run out.

The buyback program — on March 17-18 and March 24-25 — is in response to Senate Bill 5954, which Governor Jay Inslee has signed.

SB 5954, sponsored by Senator Rolfes (D-23rd Dist.), allows Washington state residents to trade in up to five bump stocks for payment before the federal ban takes effect.

You can visit any of the WSP offices listed below on March 17-18 and March 24-25 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. For information, visit the state patrol’s website.